(a chapter from my book, Facing Change)
Psalm 23 is a thoroughly familiar and well-loved psalm for most people. I first heard of it through the movie The Elephant Man. I have drawn strength and comfort from it during times of extreme emotional and mental distress, injustice, rapid change, and discomfort.
The entire Psalm 23 NIV is accessible here.
Sometimes, upon reflection, my life may have seemed to resemble going through a laundry cycle followed by a tumble dry cycle. Somehow, God allowed me to experience several baptisms of fire. God allowed me to experience the pummeling, not once but many times, so that I could become an expert in victorious living, whatever the circumstances.
The psalmist knows that as long as the LORD is his shepherd, he will have everything he needs. Likewise, as long as the LORD is our shepherd, we will have everything we need. The symbols of a shepherd’s office are his rod and his staff. The rod is the straight part of the shepherd’s staff that he leans on and walks with. The staff is the crooked part of the shepherd’s staff, with which he hooks the wandering sheep’s legs to keep them on the path. Both are used to fend off hungry predators that might come to attack the sheep. Our Good Shepherd provides us with guidance, direction, and protection. He leads us into green pastures and quiet waters with plentiful food and water. The Lord leads us into places of rest and restores our souls. He keeps us on the right paths so that we might bring honour to his name. Even though we walk through places of extreme distress, difficulties and challenges, we will not fear evil because the LORD comforts and strengthens us. Though enemies might sometimes be pressing in from every direction, the LORD prepares a table before me laden with the choice food and drink of His goodness. As the guests of honour at the LORD’s table, He blesses us abundantly and our cup overflows. This blessing is not a transient or temporary thing. It is a permanent blessing as we dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Bless the Lord and encourage yourselves with [Isaiah 40:28-31 NLT].
God is in control, whatever our circumstances might be. Find rest and peace in the LORD. Those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. [Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT]
God is limitless in His power and His wisdom. He can open the doors that no man can shut. “These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.” [Revelation 3:7-8 NLT]
Now, all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen. [Ephesians 3:20-21 NLT]
May the grace and peace of Abba Father the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
Thank You, Abba Father, Lord Jesus Christ.
In the Name of Jesus, Amen.
Word Sabre, scribe for Abba Father, LORD GOD, Lord Most High, Lord Jesus Christ.